Tragacanth
What is Tragacanth?
Tragacanth is a natural gum derived from the dried sap of several species of the Astragalus shrub, native to the Middle East. The sap is collected, dried, and then ground into a powder.
Is Tragacanth vegan?
Tragacanth is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Tragacanth gluten-free?
It is not related to gluten.
Is Tragacanth a major allergen?
Tragacanth is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Tragacanth used for?
Tragacanth is primarily used as a thickening agent and emulsifier in food products.
Is Tragacanth safe?
Tragacanth is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Tragacanth is primarily used as a thickening agent and emulsifier in food products. It helps to stabilise mixtures, prevent ingredients from separating, and improve texture. It is commonly found in desserts, sauces, dressings, and confectionery.
Health notes
Tragacanth is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is assigned the E-number E413. EFSA has evaluated tragacanth and it is considered safe for consumption at typical intake levels. There are no widely reported health concerns associated with its use as a food additive.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.1 table-top sweeteners in liquid form | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder form | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Tragacanth is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not related to gluten.
Foods that contain Tragacanth
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